Artificial Disc Replacement

Dr. Jonathan Hall

Dr. Jonathan Hall

Dr. Hall is a Board Certified Neurosurgeon that specializes in treating patients that suffer from neck pain or back pain. He is able to perform minimally invasive spine surgery and the most complex procedures.

What is Artificial Disc Replacement?

The ADR procedure is an alternative option to a Fusion surgery. During the procedure, a surgeon removes the impacted disc causing pain (typically in the lower spine or neck) and replaces it with an artificial disc. An artificial disc, which is also known as a disc prosthesis or spine arthroplasty, is made to mimic the the function and shape of a natural disc. If you are experiencing disc pain, then an experienced neurosurgeon could provide relief with prosthetic disc replacement. At Florida Surgery Consultants, we can help those suffering from lower back pain for example, with this procedure. We have locations in Tampa, Ocala, Gainesville, Bradenton, and Lakeland

What Do Artificial Discs Look Like?

 

Artificial disc used in spine surgery in Florida

Prosthetic discs are classified into two variations, which include total disc and disc nucleus replacement. A total disc, which will be placed between the vertebra by a neurosurgeon, replaces most or all of the damaged disc tissue. A disc nucleus only replaces the center of the disc (nucleus), so the annulus remains intact. Discs can be made of materials that include metal or a combination of metal and plastic.

Who's a Candidate For Artificial Disc Replacement?

For a surgeon to determine if you are an ideal candidate for artificial disc replacement, a few tests may need to be administered. These tests may include:

  • Discography
  • X-rays
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans

This type of surgery may not be suitable for all individuals with lower back pain. It may not be recommended for those who display the following characteristics:

  • Pain caused from one or two intervertebral discs(in the lumbar spine)
  • No bony compression on the spinal nerves
  • No spinal deformities (scoliosis) 

To find out if you are an ideal candidate for disc replacement surgery, the specialists at Florida Surgery Consultants can assess your condition to see if it’s a suitable treatment option.

Why you should get Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) surgery stands as a groundbreaking alternative to traditional spinal fusion procedures for individuals battling with persistent disc-related back or neck pain. ADR is designed not only to alleviate pain but also to maintain spinal flexibility, enabling patients to enjoy a broader range of motion post-surgery. This state-of-the-art procedure replaces the damaged disc with a biomechanically engineered artificial one, aiming to replicate the natural functions of the spine. One of the most compelling reasons to consider ADR is its potential for faster recovery times compared to traditional methods. Furthermore, by preserving the spine’s natural movement, ADR may reduce the risk of adjacent segment degeneration, which can sometimes occur after fusion surgeries. As spinal technologies evolve, those seeking a more dynamic solution that aligns with an active lifestyle should contemplate the long-term benefits of Artificial Disc Replacement surgery.

What is the Procedure for a Disc Replacement

In most cases, the procedure will range from two to three hours. The surgeon will enter the back through the abdomen with a small incision. The organs and blood vessels will be temporarily moved to one side of the body, which will enable the surgeon to approach your spine while keeping the nerves from moving. When the disc is opened and exposed, the surgeon will remove the damaged disc and replace it with the prosthetic disc.

How Long Does Recovery Take

 

3d image showing artificial disc complications

Fortunately, the recovery time following artificial disc replacement isn’t extensive. Most individuals will be able to go home the same day, which is based on pain levels and return to function. Many patients are encouraged to stand and take a few steps the day following the procedure. With artificial disc replacement, bone healing is not required, so patients are also encouraged to move their mid-sections the first day after surgery. Early movement is thought to speed up rehabilitation and recovery.

Patients will perform simple exercises, such as stretching and walking the first few weeks after surgery. However, it is imperative to avoid any activity that could cause the back to hyperextend.

General Questions and FAQs about Artificial Disc Replacement Surgery

Patients who have radicular pain caused by a bad disc herniation are perfect candidates. Patients who get Artificial Disc Replacements can be anywhere from ages 20-70

The main difference between the two types of surgeries is that the vertebrae is not fused together with ADR surgery. The disc is removed and replaced with an Artificial Disc. The Artificial Disc Replacement procedure is also faster in recovery.

There is about a 89-97% success rate when it comes to ADR surgery.

At Florida Surgery Consultants, we perform surgeries at an outpatient facility and will have up out in a few hours. You will be able to begin walking after surgery.

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Glossary

Center of the disc in your spine

aritifical disc replacement

lies in-between each vertebrae so the bones in your spine do not rub against one another

Discs

What Spine Surgery Do Our Spine Surgeons Perform?

What type of conditions do our Board Certified Spine Surgeons Treat?

Our Neurosurgical Spine Surgery Team

Currently on staff, we have three Neurosurgeons that specialize in spine surgery. Our Spine Surgeons see patients in all five of our office locations in Florida. To find out more on why patients should choose a neurosurgeon for spine surgery rather than an orthopedic spine surgeon click here. If you want to see their credentials click their profiles. 

Neurosurgeons close to me

Dr. Jonathan Hall, MD

Board Certified Neurosurgeon - Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Florida Surgery Consultants New Neurosurgeon Dr. Donna Saatman

Dr. Donna Saatman, MD

Board Certified Neurosurgeon - Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery